Hotspur and Friends

Artwork and Story © Colin Thom 2025

Book design and layout by Mirjam Mahler

Story edited by Claire Thom & Caroline Mellor

“Hotspur and Friends” is a series of adventures featuring a very old tortoise called Hotspur who lives in a large garden, in a city by the sea. His garden is surrounded by trees and long grass and home to lots of different animals. Unlike all of the other creatures in the garden, Hotspur is not indigenous but an immigrant. As he is very old, he is very wise. He moves slowly and methodically through the garden and life without causing harm, and he has no enemies. Hotspur is a peaceful and caring creature, always on the lookout for other animals in need of help. He is a stable and reassuring constant in the ever changing and dynamic world around him. The “Hotspur and Friends” stories are a gentle reminder to be kind, tolerant and welcoming.

All royalties are donated to Guide Dogs UK. They are a charity, almost entirely funded by donations, and they are the world’s largest assistance dog organisation. As world leaders in puppy socialisation and dog training, they’re the only organisation to breed and train guide dogs in the UK. They’re also the largest employer of specialists dedicated to helping children and young people overcome the challenges of sight loss. (Registered charity number 209617)

“Pollinators” is the first story in the "Hotspur and Friends” series. Wasp Queen Ezzmeralda selfishly wants all the flower nectar for her larvae and won’t let Hotspur eat any of his favourite delicious dandelions. When heavy rain puts Ezzmeralda’s nest in danger, Hotspur and friends bravely come to her rescue and save the day.

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